5 types of college majors that make the most money

Choosing a college major can feel like one of the biggest decisions of your life. While many pursue passions and interests, earning potential is one of the most important considerations for most students when weighing their options. Some degrees consistently open doors to high-paying jobs, while others may require additional education or experience to reach the same level. Below, we break down which college majors typically lead to the highest salaries and why.

Engineering majors

Engineering consistently ranks among the top-earning fields. With strong demand across industries, engineers often see high starting salaries and steady growth.

• Petroleum engineering: Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas. The median annual wage is about $141,280.

• Electrical engineering: Electrical engineers work in power, robotics, and electronics, earning around $118,780 per year.

• Computer engineering: Combining computer science and electrical engineering, this field offers median pay close to $155,020.

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Computer science and technology

Technology-driven careers continue to dominate salary rankings as businesses rely more heavily on software, cybersecurity, and data.

• Computer science: Software developers and related roles earn median pay of about $131,450.

• Information systems: Computer systems analysts help organizations improve efficiency with technology and take home around $103,790.

• Cybersecurity: Information security analysts are in high demand, earning roughly $124,910 a year.

Business and finance

Business-related majors prepare graduates for roles in management, consulting, and finance, which often come with high earning potential.

• Finance: Financial analysts typically earn around $101,910.

• Accounting: Accountants and auditors bring in about $103,790 annually, with higher salaries for those who become CPAs.

• Economics: Economists earn median pay of about $115,440, with many working in research, policy, or business strategy.

Health and medical majors

Healthcare remains one of the most stable and lucrative career paths, though many roles require advanced degrees.

• Nursing: Registered nurses earn about $93,600 per year, with opportunities for higher pay in specialized areas.

• Pharmacy: Pharmacists see median earnings of roughly $137,480.

• Pre-med and biological sciences: Physicians and surgeons are among the highest earners overall, with salaries coming in at $239,200 or greater.

Math, physical sciences, and other high-earning fields

• Mathematics and statistics: Actuaries, who apply math and statistics in risk management, make about $125,770 annually.

• Physics: Physicists earn around $166,290, often working in research and applied sciences.

• Architecture and construction management: Construction managers oversee building projects and typically earn about $96,690.

The role of graduate school and specialization

While some majors offer high-paying opportunities immediately after graduation, others see higher earnings with advanced degrees. For example, psychology majors who pursue clinical doctorates or MBAs may out-earn many peers. Similarly, liberal arts majors who pursue law, business, or specialized graduate programs often transition into high-paying careers.

Building earning potential beyond the degree

A degree is only part of the story. The choices students make outside the classroom can have just as much impact on their long‑term earnings as the major itself:

• Internships and co‑ops give students hands‑on experience, make résumés stand out, and often lead directly to job offers.

• Industry certifications in areas like project management, data analytics, or cloud computing can show employers you have practical, job‑ready skills.

• Networking and mentorship open doors to opportunities that may never be posted online. Connections with professors, alumni, and peers can accelerate a career path.

• Skill‑building side projects like coding a simple app, launching a blog, or managing a small online shop demonstrate initiative and entrepreneurial thinking that employers value.

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Preparing for a bright financial future

No single major guarantees wealth, and no single choice determines lifelong earning power. Career success often comes from a mix of passion, preparation, and persistence. By exploring majors with strong earning potential — and pairing them with internships, graduate studies, and skill-building opportunities — students can set themselves up for financial security and long-term growth.

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.